Hocus Pocus; or The Whole Art of Legerdemain, in Perfection.: By which the meanest capacity may perform the whole without the help of a teacher. Together with the Use of all the Instruments belonging thereto.

"Hocus Pocus; or The Whole Art of Legerdemain, in Perfection" by Henry Dean is a guidebook on sleight of hand techniques written in the late 18th century. This work serves as a comprehensive manual to the practice of legerdemain, or magic tricks, intended for both novices and experienced performers looking to improve their skills. The book outlines various magical feats involving balls, coins, cards, and other props, emphasizing the elements of misdirection and practice necessary to deceive onlookers. The opening portion of the book introduces the reader to the art of legerdemain and sets the stage for detailed explanations of various tricks. Dean begins by elucidating the fundamental principles of effective performance, which include confidence, theatrical language, and body gestures designed to distract the audience. He then proceeds to describe specific tricks involving the manipulation of balls and cups, enhancing the reader's understanding of how to deceive and entertain through practiced skill and clever presentation. Overall, this introduction establishes a foundation for the tricks that will be explored in greater depth in subsequent chapters.